Upcoming Events

Hops Program Offered by Fulton County Master Gardeners

Gardeners have been growing hop as an ornamental vine for many years. In recent years, growing hop has increased to include commercial and backyard production for craft beer brewing. Hop growing is especially popular among younger male gardeners aged 18-34.

Hop is a herbaceous perennial vine that grows well in central Illinois. Hallowed Hops Co. near Lewistown, Illinois grows a large selection of hop varieties. Owner Erik Kotewa will speak all about his hop farm on February 20. Hallowed Hops is a locally owned family business that provides a unique product. Erik will discuss their business plan, cultivation harvesting, and distribution. Kotewa says, “Hallowed Hops Co. carries select hop varieties that are grown, cultivated and processed to produce the finest hop products: whole cone, pellet, and powder.”

The University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners from Fulton and Mason counties are offering this program prior to their next monthly meeting. The program is free and open to the public. Held in the basement of the Lewistown Extension office, the presentation begins at 6:15 p.m., following a "meet and greet" at 6:00 p.m. Master Gardeners will hold their regular monthly meeting following the speaker.

Obviously, you don’t have to be an 18-34-year-old male to grow hops. Whether you grow it as an ornamental or to use when brewing beer, hops is a great addition to many gardens. More information about all University of Illinois Extension programs serving Fulton, Mason, Peoria, and Tazewell counties is available at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/fmpt or by calling 309-543-3308.